MWC 1940s/1950s "Dirty Dozen" Pattern General Service Watch with Luminova and 21 Jewel Automatic Movement -Ex Display Watch from the Border Security Expo Reduced

£239.00 £149.00 149.00
BSES3

We have two of these watches due to arrive in Mid May from the 2025 Border Security Expo. They are both brand new, and in perfect condition but the strap might show signs of having been tried on, and the packaging might be slightly soiled but both have a full 24 month guarantee from the manufacturer.

-

MWC 1940s/50s Pattern Automatic Military Watch

SKU Code: DD/01/AU

A Timeless Classic Reimagined for Everyday Wear

This self-winding automatic military watch from MWC is inspired by the iconic designs issued to British forces in the 1940s and 1950s. Featuring a small subsidiary seconds dial, this watch pays homage to the legendary "Dirty Dozen" models—now collectors’ items—but with subtle upgrades that make it more practical for modern daily use.

While the hand-wound mechanical movement used in the originals has been upgraded to a reliable 21-jewel automatic, we’ve kept the authentic look intact—right down to the acrylic crystal and canvas strap—to maintain historical accuracy.


Wartime Style, Modern Performance

  • Automatic Movement: The upgraded self-winding automatic movement also allows for manual winding when needed—offering both convenience and heritage charm.

  • Authentic Materials: The crystal is made from Plexiglass (Perspex), just like the originals, and the watch is fitted with an 18mm canvas strap reminiscent of the 1940s and 50s military issue.

  • Satin-Finished Stainless Steel Case: Crafted from 316L military-grade stainless steel, the case is tough, corrosion-resistant, and designed to endure.


A Nod to the Original “Dirty Dozen”

The final image on the product page showcases the famous 12 original manufacturers who produced watches for the British War Office:
Buren, Cyma, Eterna, Grana, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Lemania, Longines, IWC, Omega, Record, Timor, and Vertex.

Although MWC was founded in 1974 and was not part of the original group, this watch is made in the spirit of the legendary WWII timepieces—blending historical character with modern reliability.


Specifications

  • Case Diameter: 36.5mm (excluding crown), 39mm (including crown)

  • Lug to Lug: 43mm

  • Case Thickness: 13.5mm

  • Lug Type: Solid fixed strap bars

  • Case Material: 316L stainless steel (satin finish)

  • Caseback & Crown: 316L stainless steel

  • Dial Color: Black with luminous markers

  • Movement: 21-jewel automatic (with manual winding and hacking function)

  • Crystal: Plexiglass / Perspex

  • Water Resistance: 5 ATM / 50m

  • Lume Type: Luminova

  • Strap: 18mm 1950s-style military canvas strap

  • Other Features: Serial number engraved on caseback

  • Packaging: Supplied in a presentation box

  • Warranty: 24 months

* Photo Credit: Watches Of Knightsbridge

** For details of water resistance ratings etc go to Water Resistance

For anyone interested in the history of the Dirty Dozen these links show the 12 original watches and explain the history.

The Dirty Dozen 1

The Dirty Dozen 2

The Dirty Dozen 3